‘NintendoLand,’ ‘Mario Bros.’ coming to Wii U

Nintendo is relying on Mario, zombies and a virtual theme park to build buzz for the Wii U.

The Japanese gaming giant unleashed 23 games for its upcoming console that features a touchscreen controller.

Among the titles announced Tuesday at Electronic Entertainment Expo were the cooperative platform game “New Super Mario Bros. U” and the amusement park-themed mini-game collection “NintendoLand.”

Erik Sandoval is in Los Angeles covering the E3 Expo — video and more news to come!

Nintendo Co. also demonstrated the fantastical strategy sequel “Pikmin 3” and first-person undead-fighting game “ZombiU” from Ubisoft Entertainment.

The company jumped ahead of rivals Microsoft Corp. and Sony Corp. to build hype at E3 by streaming an online video Sunday revealing that the touchscreen controller would be called the Wii U GamePad.

The Wii U was unveiled last year at E3. No price or release date was announced Tuesday.

Meantime, Microsoft unveiled its version of the “second screen” in a pre-event news conference on Monday.

“Smart Glass” connects the television program you’re watching with your smartphone — providing a “richer experience,” according to Microsoft.

For example, during an episode of a crime drama, a background of the characters will be available on your phone. Or, during a football game — when a player scores a touchdown, his stats will appear on your phone.